Kia Rondo crossover due in May 2008

In a move designed to take full advantage of the new ‘crossover’ segment that is forming in the Australian car market, Kia will be introducing their Rondo, a vehicle that is part-SUV, part-MPV, part-wagon and part-hatch. Previously shown at last years Sydney Motor Show, Kia have put their Rondo on display again at this years Brisbane Motor Show.

"Rondo is a new approach to the crossover segment. No other vehicle has quite the same configuration of seats, doors and body style. It combines the benefits of four conventional segments in one package - the Urban Recreation Vehicle," said Peter Nochar, Chief Operating Officer at Kia Motors Australia.

Rondo's high ride height, good visibility, functionality and adaptability deliver that sense of being 'above the traffic' that many drivers find so appealing in SUVs.

Its individual looks and style, a compact and manoeuverable body shape, good fuel efficiency and safety equipment package echo the features found in the hatchbacks often favoured by younger Australian drivers.

For occasions when five seats just aren't enough, Rondo offers easy 7-seat flexibility with third row legroom for real people in a spacious, airy and well-equipped passenger compartment.

When cargo carrying capacity becomes the number one priority, Rondo has the space and functionality of a load-lugging wagon.

With the interior space and flexibility of a 7-seater, a 5-seater or even a 2-seat van, Rondo will be the ultimate Urban Recreation Vehicle.

The Rondo will be available with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. A diesel option is not on the cards.

The Rondo is due to go on sale in Australia in May this year, with prices starting at $24,990 and Kia are quick to point out that this will make the Rondo the best priced seven-seater on the market.

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